What Was The Role Of Child Labor In The 1800's

From the late 19th century into the early 20th century, the United States had hit an industrial boom of growth in railroad companies, factories, and mines. Along with this industrial boom, came a need for a bigger and better work force. Problems such as inhumane working conditions, long hours, child labor, and low wages, were due for a long awaited change. In 1887 the Interstate Commerce Act was passed, with the goal to regulate railroads and prevent any monopolies. This was followed by the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890, workers compensation in 1902, and the formation of the National Child Labor Committee showcasing the horrors of child labor in 1904. Keating-Owen Act of 1916, Bunting vs Oregon and Muller vs Oregon in 1917, were all cases that
“Beginning with Maryland, one state after another passed legislation requiring employers to pay benefits in death cases.” (Danzer). Keeping on this role of bettering workers safety; 2 years later in 1904 the National Child Labor Committee set out to exploit factories for tyrannical child labor conditions. Children worked like mules, work was, “interfering with their schooling and physical development” (Neumann,1) ; Lewis Hines, was a well known muckraker, as well as the man behind the camera. He was a strong advocate for the NCLC, who captured most of the horrifying pictures, causing an uproar in the public. Although the case stirred a lot of conversation, the NCLC “failed to muster enough support for nationwide laws banning labor practices harmful to children” (1). Four years later the Muller vs Oregon case surfaced in 1908; a reform to shorten the women's working day, along with a 10 hour day cap. It may not seem like a huge step ahead, but it was for the laborers. This case opened up many opportunities for the families; children now had more time for school, parents had time to relax, healthier living was
There were still many complications, such as safety hazards (emergency exits, dangerous machinery, proper attire,etc.) and low wages. I propose to the government that we create a Sustainability Act; were businesses of any form shall pay adults a reasonable wage of $6.00 a day and children $4.00 a day. This act could do great things for families: eliminating harsh poverty conditions, promoting education, and healthier living. Along with the Sustainability Act, the government needs to establish caution laws; were people who work in factories or any place with machinery are required to wear closed toed shoes, long sleeved shirts and pants, no loose jewelry, and hair pulled back at all times. Lastly I propose that the government requires factories to keep their businesses sanitized and suitable for working; this could effectively and efficiently lower the death rates. By following this, the U.S could prosper